Swearingen announces re-election bid

Incumbent State Rep. Rob Swearingen (R Rhinelander) is hoping voters will send him back to the Assembly for a seventh term.

On Tuesday, Swearingen’s office announced his intent to seek re-election in November.

“The lifelong Rhinelander resident and small business owner is proud of his work in the legislature and bringing more jobs and prosperity to the 34th Assembly District,” the release states. “Rep. Swearingen strongly advocates for lowering taxes, expanding broadband access district-wide, promoting tourism, and addressing the unique issues that only people in the Northwoods face.”

“I am extremely humbled by the amount of support and encouragement I have received to run for a seventh term in the Assembly,” Swearingen said. “As a restaurant owner for 30 years, I understand firsthand the challenges our communities and businesses face with the recent lack of tourism and record-high inflation. I will continue working to keep taxes low and the government out of your daily life. Over the past decade, the legislature has pushed forward with policies and reforms that provided our state with a great economic climate. I hope to continue on this trend in my next term.”

During this session, Swearingen fought to keep issues pertinent to the Northwoods at the forefront of the legislative agenda, including a historic investment in K-12 education, increasing aid to rural school districts, and increasing broadband access to homes and small businesses alike, the release states.

“This session, the legislature passed a fiscally responsible budget,” he noted. “While cutting taxes by $2 billion, we once again made the largest K-12 investment in state history and provided over $500 million to bolster our workforce. Investing in our schools and workforce development will guarantee that the Northwoods continues to be a great place to live, work, and raise a family.”

During his sixth term, Rep. Swearingen served as chairman of the Assembly Committee on State Affairs and vice chairman of the Assembly Committee on Tourism. He also served as a member of the Assembly Committee on Forestry, Parks, and Outdoor Recreation and vice-chair of the State Building Commission.

“It has been my absolute privilege to represent the people of the 34th Assembly District, and although many district lines throughout the state have changed dramatically, the 34th has remained the same. I would be honored to have the opportunity to serve another term as your state representative,” he added. “I respectfully ask for your vote in this November’s election.”

As of press time, Swearingen is the only announced candidate for the 34th Assembly seat. In November 2022, Swearingen defeated then Rhinelander Common Council president Eileen Daniel with 61.8 percent of the vote.

The 34th Assembly District includes Vilas and Oneida counties.